Three packages belonging to a jeweler were intercepted in transit “using a complex scheme to trick package delivery companies,” according to the Sacramento Sheriff Department in California.
Two people have been arrested in connection with the Jan. 12 crime. Police believe that one of them, Lakisha Pettus, “has been involved in this scheme for nearly 15 years.”
The Jewelers’ Security Alliance offers advice and recommendations on package delivery scams here.
The sheriff’s department stated in a social media post:
On January 12, 2024, three packages belonging to a local Jeweler, valued at approximately $86,000, were intercepted during transit using a complex scheme to trick package delivery companies. The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Bureau (SIB) investigated the theft and discovered that Lakisha Pettus, posing as an employee of the Jeweler, orchestrated the release of the packages to a third-party courier service for a small payment. The courier, in turn, transported the packages to Vallejo, where Kyle Gutierrez took possession of the stolen items. GUTIERREZ later provided the packages to Pettus in exchange for a small fee.
On January 15, 2024, SIB Detectives uncovered Pettus’s attempt to intercept another package valued at over $65,000. The Special Investigations Bureau Conducted an undercover operation that led to Vallejo, California. During the operation, Kyle Gutierrez and Lakisha Pettus were apprehended. The Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office issued local warrants for both individuals. With the assistance of the Department of Justice , SIB Detectives located and arrested Gutierrez and Pettus, who were subsequently transported to the Sacramento County Main Jail. During the Investigation, it was discovered that PETTUS has been involved in this scheme for nearly 15 years; if you or your business has been victimized, please get in touch with the Sheriff’s Office at 916-874-5115.
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